Parking fees dropped at provincial parks

Funds available for park improvement projects

In the same week the RMOW announced new parking fees, BC Parks was announcing the elimination of parking fees.

Premier Christy Clark made the announcement last week with environment minister Terry Lake at Mount Seymour.

"The parking meters are coming out and parking will be free, effective immediately, so that British Columbia's parks are even more welcoming for families," said Premier Clark.

She said parks contribute to a healthy lifestyle and protect our environment.

According to the new premier, more park visitors will bring more tourism dollars and more jobs for rural British Columbians.

"We want to eliminate any barriers to using the parks," Premier Clark said.

Anyone who purchased an annual parking pass after Sept. 1 of last year can send the pass back to BC Parks to get a refund. The provincial government is requesting that pass holders print and complete a form that is available through the province's website then mail the form with the parking pass to BC Parks in Victoria. Once the form is received in Victoria the provincial government promises to send a refund cheque back.

The refund form can be found at www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/fees/parking.html.

BC Parks is currently marking 100 years of park operations. After Clark made the parking announcement, Lake announced community groups could apply for up to $20,000 for park enhancement projects or conservation projects.

The provincial government has set aside half a million dollars to fund projects.

"The new legacy fund looks to the future and the improvements we can continue to make, and it looks to the past 100 years by recognizing that community groups have played a key role in making the parks and protected areas system what it is today," said Lake.